The Red Sox are gearing up for an exciting spring debut, but there's a twist! Connelly Early, the pitcher who carried the team's hopes in the 2025 AL Wild Card Series, will make his first appearance this season. But here's where it gets intriguing:
Early will take the mound on Monday, March 13th, against the Tampa Bay Rays, a team that always brings a challenge. This game is more than just a spring warm-up; it's a chance for Early to prove himself again after a nail-biting 2025 finale. The Red Sox lineup is a mix of familiar and fresh faces, with Carlos Narvaez and Nick Sogard taking center stage. Sogard's inclusion as the starting first baseman is particularly notable due to the team's current lack of depth at that position.
The game promises to be a thrilling affair, with a lineup of talented pitchers ready to showcase their skills. Zack Kelly, Kyle Keller, and the rest of the relief crew will be supporting Early, while the Rays counter with their own formidable lineup, including Ian Seymour.
And this is the part fans won't want to miss: The game won't be televised, adding an old-school charm to the experience. Instead, fans can tune in to WEEI 850 AM to catch all the action. Imagine the anticipation as listeners picture every pitch and play in their minds!
Here's the full lineup for the big game:
- Nate Eaton (RF)
- Nick Sogard (1B)
- Andruw Monasterio (3B)
- Kristian Campbell (CF)
- Matt Thaiss (C)
- Carlos Narvaez (DH)
- Brendan Rodgers (2B)
- Tsung-Che Cheng (SS)
- Braiden Ward (LF)
- Connelly Early (P)
Mark your calendars for 1:05 p.m. at Charlotte Sports Park, Port Charlotte, and don't forget to tune in to WEEI 850 AM to catch this unmissable spring debut. Will Early and the Red Sox start the season with a bang? Share your predictions in the comments below!
